Leinster close to finding old magic, insists O’Connor

Although matches against Ulster in recent seasons evoke positive memories for Leinster, defeat this weekend could deepen the sense of crisis ahead of a significant month that will also decide the province’s fate in the Champions Cup.

Coach Matt O’Connor and captain Jamie Heaslip insisted this week the mood inside the camp is positive, with Heaslip in particular shrugging off suggestions there is a sense of frustration in light of recent performances.

After Ulster, Leinster travel to Cardiff in the Pro12 next week before completing their Champions Cup pool against Castres and Wasps. It has the feel of a defining period. Pressed to identify what Leinster have lacked this season, O’Connor suggested his side are close to finding the combinations that made them so exhilarating.